CBS streaming means watching CBS television shows and live broadcasts through the internet instead of a cable or antenna connection

CBS is a broadcast television network that has been on the air since 1927. For decades, the only way to watch CBS was through a television set connected to cable, satellite, or an antenna. Today, CBS offers its content through Paramount+, a streaming service you access on phones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs.

When you stream CBS through Paramount+, you are watching the same shows that air on the CBS broadcast network, but on your own schedule and devices. Some content is available when ready after it airs on television. Other shows and movies are exclusive to Paramount+ and never appear on the broadcast channel.

Key Takeaways

  • CBS content streams through Paramount+, which you can watch on any internet-connected device without a cable subscription.
  • Paramount+ offers both live CBS broadcasts and on-demand episodes of shows that aired on CBS television.
  • The service has two subscription tiers: one with ads and one without ads, each at different monthly costs.
  • You can watch CBS shows on Paramount+ the day after they air on television, or sometimes the same night depending on the program.
  • Paramount+ also includes movies, original series, and content from other networks owned by Paramount, not just CBS.

What you can watch on CBS through Paramount+

Paramount+ carries the same shows that broadcast on the CBS network, including news programs, sports events, game shows, dramas, and comedies. Popular CBS shows like The Bold and the Beautiful, The Young and the Restless, and 60 Minutes are available to stream. Live CBS broadcasts are also included, so you can watch events as they happen.

Beyond CBS content, Paramount+ includes shows and movies from other networks and studios owned by Paramount, such as MTV, Nickelodeon, BET, and Comedy Central. The service also produces original series made only for Paramount+. This means your subscription gives you access to far more than just CBS programming.

How to watch CBS on Paramount+

To watch CBS content on Paramount+, you first need a Paramount+ subscription. You create an account on the Paramount+ website or through the mobile app, choose your subscription tier, and provide payment information. Once your account is active, you can log in from any device with internet access.

On the Paramount+ app or website, you search for the CBS show you want to watch or browse the CBS section. Click on the episode or live broadcast, and it begins playing. You can pause, rewind, or fast-forward through on-demand content. Live broadcasts play in real time, just like watching on television.

Paramount+ works on smartphones, tablets, computers, smart TVs, streaming devices like Roku and Apple TV, and gaming consoles. You can watch on one device at a time with the basic subscription tier, or on multiple devices simultaneously with the higher-priced tier.

The difference between live CBS and on-demand episodes

Live CBS means you watch broadcasts as they air in real time through Paramount+. This includes live sports, news, and special events. You cannot pause or rewind live broadcasts while they are happening, though some services offer the ability to rewind within a short window after the broadcast ends.

On-demand episodes are shows that have already aired on CBS television and are now stored in the Paramount+ library. You can watch them whenever you want, pause them, rewind, and fast-forward. Most CBS shows become available on-demand the day after they air on television, though timing varies by program.

Subscription tiers and what they cost

Paramount+ offers two subscription options. The ad-supported tier costs less per month but includes advertisements during shows and movies. The ad-free tier costs more per month and lets you watch without interruptions from ads. Both tiers include the same content library, including all CBS programming.

Pricing changes periodically, so check the Paramount+ website for current monthly costs. Some people also get Paramount+ bundled with other services at a discount, or through their cable or internet provider. Student discounts and promotional rates are sometimes available as well.

When CBS shows appear on Paramount+ after they air

Most CBS shows that air on television become available on Paramount+ the next day. For example, if a show airs on CBS on Tuesday evening, you can usually stream it on Paramount+ starting Wednesday morning. Some shows, particularly news and sports, may have different timing or may not be available on-demand at all.

A few CBS shows are exclusive to Paramount+ and do not air on the broadcast network at all. These original series are only available through the streaming service. Check the show's description on Paramount+ to see whether it airs on CBS television or streams only on Paramount+.

How CBS streaming differs from cable or antenna TV

With cable or an antenna, you watch CBS on a fixed schedule — the show airs at a set time, and you must be available to watch it then. With Paramount+ streaming, you choose when to watch. You can start an episode at any hour, pause it, and come back later.

Cable and antenna TV are free (antenna) or bundled into a monthly bill (cable), while Paramount+ requires a separate subscription. However, you do not need cable or satellite service to watch CBS through Paramount+, which can save money if you are cutting the cord. You only need an internet connection.

Streaming also lets you watch on smaller devices like phones and tablets, which is not possible with traditional broadcast television. You can take your shows with you and watch on the go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need cable to watch CBS on Paramount+?

No. Paramount+ is a standalone streaming service that works with just an internet connection. You do not need cable, satellite, or a television antenna to watch CBS through Paramount+. Any device with internet access and the Paramount+ app will work.

Can I watch CBS live sports on Paramount+?

Yes. Paramount+ includes live CBS broadcasts, which means you can watch live sports events, news, and other programming that airs on CBS television. Live broadcasts play in real time, the same as watching on a television set.

What happens if I cancel my Paramount+ subscription?

Once you cancel, you lose access to all content on Paramount+, including CBS shows. Your account and any saved preferences are deleted after a certain period. If you resubscribe later, you start fresh with a new account.

Can I read CBS shows from Paramount+ to watch offline?

Some shows and movies on Paramount+ can be downloaded to your phone or tablet to watch later without an internet connection. Not all content supports downloading — check the show's page to see if a read option is available.

Is Paramount+ the only way to watch CBS shows online?

Paramount+ is the primary streaming home for CBS content. Some CBS shows may also be available through other services or the CBS website itself, but Paramount+ is where the full CBS library streams. Availability varies by show and region.